Dalat Flower Gardens & Lake: A Tranquil Retreat in Vietnam’s Central Highlands
Surrounded by cool pine forests and rolling hills, Dalat offers a refreshing highland escape unlike anywhere else in Vietnam. Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Dalat charms visitors with its temperate climate, French-inspired villas, and colorful landscapes. At the heart of it all lie two of the city’s most iconic attractions — the Dalat Flower Gardens and the serene Xuan Huong Lake. Whether you're staying at SAM Tuyen Lam Golf Club or Dalat Palace Golf Club, this area offers the perfect non-golf interlude. From blooming flower beds to lakeside walks, it’s a destination that blends beautifully with a relaxing highland golf vacation.
Dalat Flower Gardens: A Living Canvas
Located on the northern tip of Xuan Huong Lake, the Dalat Flower Gardens (also known as Dalat Flower Park) stretch across over 7,000 square meters of curated blooms. Established in 1966 and continuously expanded since, the park showcases more than 300 types of flowers — from hydrangeas, mimosa, and orchids to imported roses and cacti. The gardens reflect Dalat’s deep connection to horticulture and serve as the main venue for the biennial Dalat Flower Festival, which draws thousands of visitors and floral artists from across the world. Stone pathways, gazebos, fountains, and floral sculptures create a peaceful atmosphere for visitors of all ages.
Xuan Huong Lake: Dalat’s Peaceful Centerpiece
Encircling the city’s central district, Xuan Huong Lake is a man-made crescent-shaped lake with a 5-kilometer perimeter ideal for walking, biking, or taking a swan pedal boat. Originally a swamp, the lake was constructed during the French colonial period and named after poet Ho Xuan Huong. Today, it serves as the emotional and visual heart of the city. Early mornings see joggers and locals practicing tai chi, while evenings bring couples strolling under pine trees as mist rolls in over the water. The lakeside is dotted with flower beds, art installations, and relaxing cafés — offering a poetic calm unmatched elsewhere in Vietnam.
Landmarks Along the Lake
- Lam Vien Square: Home to the iconic glass “Wild Sunflower” and “Artichoke” domes
- Pedal Boats: Rent swan-shaped boats for a peaceful float near the gardens
- Café Strip: Grab a coffee and watch the light shift over the water from dawn till dusk
Getting There from Dalat’s Golf Courses
- From Dalat Palace Golf Club: ~5 minutes by car or a 15-minute walk
- From SAM Tuyen Lam Golf Club: ~25–30 minutes by car (~15 km)
Taxis and Grab are readily available. To stay nearby, book hotels or villas with lake views through:
Suggested Golf & Garden Itinerary
- Morning: Tee off at Dalat Palace or SAM Tuyen Lam
- Midday: Lunch at a lakeside restaurant or your hotel terrace
- Afternoon: Stroll through the Dalat Flower Gardens
- Evening: Take a peaceful walk or swan boat ride around Xuan Huong Lake
Best Time to Visit
Dalat blooms year-round, but the best time to visit is between November and March, during the dry season when temperatures are mild and the skies are clear. The Dalat Flower Festival typically takes place in December or January, filling the city with floral parades and art displays.
Dining Around the Lake
- Thanh Thuy Blue Water: Popular lakefront café with Vietnamese and Western dishes
- Le Rabelais at Dalat Palace: Elegant French fine dining with white tablecloth service
- Bicycle Up Café: Quirky, cozy venue with strong coffee and local pastries
Tips for Travelers
- Arrive early in the morning for soft light and fewer crowds
- Pack a light jacket or scarf — temperatures can drop quickly after sunset
- Use walking shoes or rent a bicycle for the full lake circuit
Romantic & Reflective Appeal
Dalat has long been a honeymoon destination, and it’s easy to see why. The gentle breezes, floral scents, and soft light give everything a romantic glow. For couples on a golf holiday or travelers looking for balance between sport and serenity, the gardens and lake offer a peaceful counterpart to tee-time intensity.
Why It’s Perfect for Golf Travelers
Golf in Dalat is already a meditative experience, surrounded by pine-covered hills and fresh highland air. Adding a visit to the flower gardens and lake amplifies that sense of well-being. It's not just a break from the game — it’s a deeper immersion into nature and beauty, two elements that every golfer appreciates.
Final Thoughts
More than just a photo stop, Dalat Flower Gardens and Xuan Huong Lake provide a soulful pause in your travel journey. Whether you’re golfing, honeymooning, or simply exploring Vietnam’s highlands, these iconic places offer tranquility, elegance, and charm. Take a deep breath, feel the cool breeze, and savor Dalat’s timeless magic. Explore more Places of Interest in Vietnam and pair your golf trip with the natural romance of Dalat.
Useful Golf Resources in Vietnam
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